History Of The Monroe Doctrine Of 1823 Essay - 1076 Words

The History of the Monroe Doctrine of 1823 Israel Cordero Central High School November 9, 2015 3rd Period Abstract The Monroe Doctrine had a great impact due to its strict policy towards the European powers. It wanted to keep the U.S. trade safe from European powers and colonization. Without this important doctrine/document the Europeans would have most likely colonized, interfered with, and disrupted the western hemisphere and also the trade systems connected with them. The U.S. also would not be a balanced nation and have a balanced foreign policy without the Monroe Doctrine, which was also known as the back bone of the U.S. foreign policy. The History of the Monroe Doctrine of 1823 In this essay I will be explaining to you all on how the Monroe Doctrine came to be, who the document was authored by and how they gained the inspiration and where he got his ideas for this document from. I will explain what nations were affected by the policies of the Doctrine which I will explain in a little bit. I will explain how this document helped the Mexican President Juarez in successfully revolting against the Emperor Maximillian of the French. I will also cover how the British affected the document and also how President Roosevelt wanted to extend the Doctrine with his â€Å"Roosevelt Corollary.† This document all began with the 5th president of the United States, James Madison. He tried to come up with some ideas to prevent Spain from repossessing the Western Hemisphere. So heShow MoreRelatedMonroe Doctrine1660 Words   |  7 PagesMonroe Doctrine The Monroe Doctrine can be considered as the United States first major declaration to the world as a fairly new nation. The Monroe Doctrine was a statement of United States policy on the activity and rights of powers in the Western Hemisphere during the early to mid 1800s. The doctrine established the United States position in the major world affairs of the time. Around the time of the Napoleonic Wars in the 1820s, Mexico, Argentina, Chile and Colombia all gained their independenceRead MoreHistorical Significance of the Monroe Doctrine Essay1192 Words   |  5 PagesPresident James Monroe declared â€Å"In the discussions to which this interest has given rise and in the arrangements by which they may terminate the occasion has b een judged proper for asserting, as a principle in which the rights and interests of the United States are involved, that the American continents, by the free and independent condition which they have assumed and maintain, are henceforth not to be considered as subjects for future colonization by any European powers,† on December 2, 1823 in the MonroeRead More1.President Monroe Believed That The United States Had1470 Words   |  6 Pages1. President Monroe believed that the United States had earned their independence and that European powers had no right to intervene or try to rule to U.S. The Monroe Doctrine was essentially President Monroe telling Europe that the United State was independent and that the U.S. would not have conflicts with them if Europe did not try to overpower them and dictate their country. Monroe told the European powers that the future role they played in the Western Hemisphere is that they were to treat theRead MoreThe Monroe Doctrine And The Modern F ramework For American Domestic Affairs950 Words   |  4 PagesIntended as an annual message to Congress in 1823, President James Monroe’s speech, The Monroe Doctrine, evolved into the modern framework for American domestic affairs. Monroe’s proposed domestic policy was the President’s way of attempting to secure The United States’ newly acquired land. Not even a decade after the War of 1812 was resolved, many Americans were concerned when it came to United States’ involvement in foreign wars. This unsettlement in America was largely due to a controlling andRead MoreEssay about Foreign Policy - Roosevelt Corollary1109 Words   |  5 PagesThe Roosevelt Corollary greatly affected American foreign policy. It was in sharp contrast to the Monroe Doctrine, put in place to stop foreign intervention with the American continents. In 1823 President Monroe implemented US policy that stated European powers were not allowed to colonize or interfere with th e newly budding United States or the Americas. In 1904 President Roosevelt expanded upon this policy in response to European intervention with Latin America. This policy became known asRead MoreMonroe Doctrine Essay1607 Words   |  7 PagesThe Monroe Doctrine James Monroe was born in 1758 in Westmoreland County, Virginia. He attended school until the age of sixteen. He then entered the College of William and Mary (Sauer, 2000, p. 233). Monroe enlisted in the army during the Revolutionary War and at the age of eighteen he became lieutenant. He served under Washington and he was later made a captain for his efforts in the battle at Trenton, New Jersey, where he was wounded in the shoulder. From then on Monroe was active inRead MoreAmerican Diplomacy That Kissinger Notes And What Makes American Diplomatic History Unique?1466 Words   |  6 PagesKhalil Akil U.S. History Since 1877 U.S. History Introductory Paper August 31, 2015 In this paper I will be answering the following questions. â€Å"What are the inherent tensions in American Diplomacy that Kissinger notes and what makes American diplomatic history unique?† â€Å"To what extent would you define yourself as a realist or an idealist in regards to American foreign policy?† â€Å"What unique factors contribute to American expansionism and isolationism?† The inherent tensions in American diplomacyRead MoreAmerica s Changing Foreign Policy2460 Words   |  10 Pages The Monroe Doctrine was an assertion of President James Monroe regarding U.S. foreign policy in 1823. In the Doctrine, the President denounced European powers’ any further attempt to colonize and exploit Latin American countries, while promising not to interfere any existing European colonies in the Americas. The Monroe Doctrine was one of the greatest turning points in American foreign policy as it marked the beginning of America’s rapid development as a world power. Over the past two hundredRead MoreThe War Of 1812 Was A Major Part Of History983 Words   |  4 PagesThe War of 1812 was a major part of history in America’s battle to become independent. This was the United States â€Å"Second War for Independence† from the British. After the War of 1812 there were major consequences that would change the lives of the Americans forever. Both industry and foreign relations were heavily impacted after the war. Industry flourished with new technology, the idea of interchangeable parts and the cotton gin. The cotton gin saved valuable time and interchangeable parts madeRead MoreThe Monroe Doctrine And The United States Of America880 Words   |  4 Pagesthe history of the world has been greatly influenced by the young nation of the United States of America. One of the earliest forms of this influence came on Dec. 2, 1823 in President James Monroe’s annual message to congress. In his address, he outlined his beliefs on keeping European powers out of Latin America for the good of the US. This section of his speech became known as The Monroe Doctrine. About 80 years later, President Theodore Roosevelt built on top of the ideas in the Monroe Doctrine

Internet Privacy Government Should Not Regulate...

Internet Privacy: Government Should Not Regulate Encryption or Cryptography Privacy rights have been an important issue through out time, and it has been increasing in importance as we have moved into the electronic/information age. Keeping that privacy had become a growing concern for many businesses and consumers. With all the information being sent across the web, people are very concerned about their personal information falling into the wrong hands. One way to help protect your privacy on the net is by using an encryption program. Even though they are not completely unbreakable, an encryption program is one of the best ways to protect against outside intrusions. Despite this fact, the government wants too place legislation on†¦show more content†¦Citizens, against illegal search and seizure. (Some even believe that it goes against our First Amendment rights, as in the case of Bernstein v. Dept Justice. In this case, U.S. District Court Judge Marilyn Patel ruled that the rights of academic cryptographer, Daniel Bernstein, were violated by the ex port controls on encryption. Patel ruled that computer source code is a form of speech protected under the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. (EFF Press Release...) This was an important step in the fight against government regulation on encryption.) By allowing the government free access to encryption keys, we are practically giving the government permission to freely snoop in our personal lives. Therefore, by forcing encryption system users to give them their decryption keys, the government is pretty much forcing people to give up their right to privacy on the internet. It is illegal to search a house or even a car without sufficient cause and I feel that the your electronic communications, which include: e-mail, FAX messages, fund transfers, trade secrets, and health records, should be dealt with in the same way. The government states that these encryption keys are necessary to survey possible criminal or terrorist activities. It claims that without access to the keys of all encrypted messages, its ability to fight crime and prevent terrorism will be devastated. (ACLU White Paper) Yet, 83 percent of all government surveillance in theShow MoreRelated Government Intervention On The Internet Essay1398 Words   |  6 Pages Government Intervention on the Internet nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;During the last decade, our society has become based on the sole ability to move large amounts of information across great distances quickly. Computerization has influenced everyones life in numerous ways. The natural evolution of computer technology and this need for ultra-fast communications has caused a global network of interconnected computers to develop. This global network allows a person to send E-mail acrossRead MoreInformation on the Internet Essay2584 Words   |  11 PagesInformation on the Internet During the past decade, our society has become based solely on the ability to move large amounts of information across great distances in a very short amount of time and at very low costs. The evolution of the computer era and our growing need for ultra-fast communications has caused a global network of interconnected computers to develop, commonly referred to as the Internet or the world wide web. The Internet has influenced Read More Encryption: Privacy versus National Security Essay2485 Words   |  10 Pages     Ã‚  Ã‚   Abstract: The use of encryption by individuals is growing at a tremendous rate, and since 1991 cryptography issues have engulfed both the U.S. government as well as the computing industry. One of the most controversial of these issues is whether encryption should be made supremely secure to the highest-level current technology will allow, or whether a master key should be locked away somewhere, only to be used when absolutely justified.   Both sides of the issue have their benefits and detriments;Read MoreCryptography And The Egyptian Tomb Of A Nobleman2221 Words   |  9 Pagesinformation from others. This could be for reasons of espionage, having a secret that shouldn’t be shared or some other well-guarded right. Cryptography, encryption and various other methods have been used in history and are constantly evolving into what we are using today to protect our data from getting stolen, hacked and lives peeked at. Cryptography, at least in some form, has been around since 1900 BC where the first known evidence had been seen in an Egyptian tomb of a nobleman, KhnuhotepRead MoreOnline Security and Payment Systems: Review Questions2032 Words   |  9 Pagespresentation outlining your vision of the new opportunities for cybercrime. 6-3 1. WHY IS IT LESS RISKY TO STEAL ONLINE? EXPLAIN SOME OF THE WAYS CRIMINALS DECEIVE CONSUMERS AND MERCHANTS. ï‚ ¢ ï‚ ¢ The potential for anonymity on the Internet can allow criminals to assume identities that look legitimate and at the same time, shield them from law enforcement agencies. Using these assumed identities, criminals can place fraudulent orders with online merchants, intercept e-mail, stealRead MoreEssay about Privacy of Personal Information on the Internet1961 Words   |  8 PagesPrivacy of Personal Information on the Internet . Introduction Due to the rise of the internet, information privacy has become a first level social and political issue gaining a global position. Globalization of the privacy issue has been driven by worldwide trade, communication, travel, and marketing. As computer networks make it easier to find, store, and process information, it is becoming harder for individuals to keep their data private. The regulatory approach for protectingRead MoreInformation Systems Security Review3002 Words   |  12 Pagesfrom improper access, disclosure, or destruction (Spagnoletti and Resca, 2008). This is possible if the system ensures availability, confidentiality, as well as integrity of any data in an organization. Corporations, financial institutions, and governments have a lot of information on products, finances, research, and employees. This information usually resides in electronic media and may move from one point to another. Furthermore, with the advances in networks, transmission to other computers orRead MoreOnline Banking42019 Words   |  169 PagesInternet Banking Table of Contents Chapter–1– Introduction 0 Chapter–2– Internet Banking a new medium 7 Chapter--3 - International experience 19 Chapter -4 -The Indian Scenario 33 Chapter- 5- Types of risks associated with Internet banking 41 Chapter- 6- Technology And Security Standards For Internet - Banking 49 Chapter -7 - Legal Issues involved in Internet Banking 74 Chapter- 8- Regulatory and supervisory concerns 84 Chapter–9 - Recommendations 98 Annexure 1 111 Annexure 2 112 Read MoreMobile Voting System7105 Words   |  29 PagesIdeas about SMS security Security alternative Various Encryption-decryption algorithm use 2.5.1 Quasigroups Encryption Algorithms 2.5.1.1 2.5.1.2 2.5.1.3 Encryption Decryption Composition of encryption and decryption 2.5.2 Transposition Algorithm Techniques 2.5.3 Data Encryption Standard (DES) 2.6 2.7 Optimal method of encryption for our proposed system Detailed discussion about the selected encryption algorithm 2.7.1 One time padding in Encryption 2.8 Advantages of using the algorithm CHAPTER 3:Read More Copyright in Cyberspace Essay4853 Words   |  20 Pagesâ€Å"Cyberspace will render law ineffective.† â€Å"There is no way to police cyberspace.† â€Å"The government cannot penetrate cyberspace with its laws and regulations.† These are all relatively common views. Part of this trend is the belief that intellectual property cannot be protected on the Internet because of perceived inherent characteristics of cyberspace. Some even believe this to be a good thing, that there should be no barriers that hinder the flow of information, no protection over an author’s publications

Reflection On Experience Free Essays

Last fall I started my Full-time MBA program. I was assigned to a group of five members, including myself. As part of our orientation, our first exercise was to take on a ropes course as a group. We will write a custom essay sample on Reflection On Experience or any similar topic only for you Order Now This exercise helped us to know more about each other and become more cohesive as we were unfamiliar with each other and meeting for the first time. We came from different backgrounds, different cultures, and different countries, but we shared similar goals. We had members that worked in operations, marketing, finance, and supply chain; some of us never worked in teams, so it was important for us to know each other’s strengths and weaknesses and address each. We agreed as a group to make the most of our experience and try to help each other in achieving our goals. There were two sets of goals that our team worked for. We, as a group, hoped not only to deliver whatever requirements were in the program’s curriculum, but also we aimed to grow as individuals and as a group. It was evident from day one that each member of this team was aiming to excel and becoming distinct from other groups. Our common goal of excelling made it easier for us to find a common ground, and we felt that our goals were attainable as long as we show commitment and dedication. As any group, we had our share of positive and negative experiences that I will shed some light on in this paper. Although our group was highly functional and motivated towards succeeding in achieving our goals, there were few unexplored issues that I hope we work on in the remainder of our tenure. This paper provides my personal reflection of some behaviors administered by members of my group and myself as well. Those behaviors impacted the functionality and the effectiveness of our team. The first part shall discuss the positive behaviors that I observed from other team members whom I believe had a huge impact on our team. The second part will be a self-evaluation of my behavior in the context of a study group, in particular negative behaviors and how to avoid them in future projects. One positive behavior that I observed from a couple of our team members on a regular basis is taking the initiative. In my opinion, this was a significant factor in our success as a group last quarter, and it taught me how to perceive my self and others in order to identify strengths and weaknesses and how vital it is to be proactive within a group. On several occasions throughout the last quarter, those two members launched new initiatives that led to changes in the way we tackle things as a group and the way we approach problems. This proactive behavior helped us to avoid some problems that we might have faced before they even occurred. Some problems like working under pressure when deadlines are imminent or doing repetitive work were avoided as both of those members anticipated them in advance and pointed out how to avoid such problems. Those two members’ actions were usually consistent with our goals as a group, and I believe that we helped them become proactive by allowing them to take the initiative and not squandering their efforts. Their ideas were usually listened to carefully and we allowed them to try it. Also if mistakes were made, it was never held against them so we don’t close the window on takinf the initiative in the future, whether from their side or any other group member. It is the same concept as â€Å"reward† and â€Å"punishment† that was discussed in class; as any other behavior, proactive behavior if rewarded it will flourish and if punished or blamed it will be discouraged. The difference in our case is that the â€Å"reward† was being listened to or appreciating the effort, and the â€Å"punishment† was blaming them for making mistakes. Although our team never had an assigned leader, but usually those members who took the initiative assumed the role of leadership by default. This was another enlightening moment for me as I learned in order to lead, I have to take the initiative and become more proactive. I believe that this proactive behavior from those members helped us enhance our performance and helped us to avoid being complacent or passive. Another reason, in my opinion, motivated us in embracing some of their ideas, is our sense that those ideas were for the greater benefit of our group and wasn’t seeking any personal benefit or gain. Even though at times the room for being proactive was narrow, especially when we were working on tight schedules or deadlines were approaching, such behavior was evident throughout the quarter. Another positive behavior that I noticed from one of our group members is support. Support plays an essential role in the success of any group as it not only enhances the overall performance of the group, but it makes the group more cohesive and helps building trust. Each member of our group came from a different functional area or background, so it was essential to recognize that each of us is stronger in certain areas and weaker in other ones. This particular member was very supportive to our group members, and by support I don’t mean only helping in solving problems. His support extended to helping completing tasks on time even if it wasn’t assigned to him, giving encouragement and feedback to our group members, and taking extra tasks when needed. This behavior helped in creating a sense of collaboration and made the group more cohesive. He also supported any ideas that were suggested, regardless whether they were approved or not, he showed real interest in every idea or suggestion. Such behavior encouraged our group members to speak more openly and allowed for more contribution. It increased our group loyalty and generated trust among our group members. On the other hand, one negative behavior that I personally need to work on is not allowing other team members to express their ideas and opinions. Sometimes I feel very strong about my ideas that I shut down towards other ideas from other team members. In particular there is one team member of ours that is usually left out, so we as a team should take the responsibility for such a negative behavior. I realize that a group works best when everyone is allowed to contribute in the discussions during the meetings and benefit from the diversity in our group by bringing in different ideas; however, this one member usually chooses not to contribute and we never encouraged her to overcome this obstacle. We tend to forget that this member is not used to working in teams, and this might be the reason she is finding difficulties to contribute effectively in our team meetings and in the decision making process. I believe that we, as a group, allowed this behavior to develop throughout the quarter until it became a habit. According to the â€Å"Social Information Processing Model†, as part of the judgment process, Fundamental Attribution Bias is â€Å"the tendency to develop explanations that rely on the internal state of people when we focus on someone else’s behavior. † We attributed her lack of participation to her lack of skill or ability, and completely over looked the possibility that it could be attributed to other external factors. External factors such as cultural difference or unfamiliarity of working in a team could have been the reason behind her lack of contribution. Our failure to address those issues on the spot could have been the reason why those issues evolved and led to a self-limiting behavior from her side, which ultimately led to a lack in self-efficacy. This behavior affected her self-confidence in her ability of making significant contributions to the team causing her to disengage from team discussions and withhold ideas or opinions. Another negative behavior that I need to address is procrastination. I have a habit of putting off work until last minute. I do not believe I demonstrate this behavior because I am lazy or because I cannot manage my time efficiently, but because I always have a sense of ability of finishing the assigned task in less time. During earning my undergraduate bachelor degree in Civil Engineering, I was used to working in crunch time and finishing the tasks right before they are due. It was not much of my choice, but due to the enormous amount of work I was rarely able to finish those tasks ahead of schedule. Unfortunately, I carried this habit with me to my group work last quarter. I never failed to meet a deadline, but by the end of the quarter a considerable amount of work was accumulated and I had to work extremely hard in order not to miss deadlines. I could have easily avoided this issue if I had started working earlier on those projects. A huge reason for my procrastinating issue, in my opinion, is lack of self-control. Usually, I look for distractions deliberately or reasons to postpone working on the task at hand. I like to convince my self that I work better under pressure, using this as an excuse to postpone work. Although it might appear at first that this behavior affects only me as an individual and not the group as a whole, but my tendency to procrastinate might cause my group to miss opportunities for improvement. By submitting my task just as it is due, I didn’t leave room for improvement. My work could have needed further review or it might have shed some light on an area that we overlooked, which gives us an opportunity to further enhance our body of work and make it even better. In my opinion, for our group to advance and improve we need to set some goals in order for us to reach a higher level of understanding and collaboration. Involvement is a huge factor in the success of any group; consequently we should aim for having every member’s input in the decision making process and in the group discussions. Discussions should be managed differently to make sure every member participates. Participation from all members is vital for any group because it allows different views and ideas to be shared so we need to create a decision-making environment that allows all members to share views and ideas. We should ensure that everyone understands the objectives and the task at hand. We also need to develop more trust among our team members and avoid using shortcuts to form our perception. The Social Information Processing Model talks about Self-fulfilling Prophecy or Pygmalion effect as a shortcut that influences perception, which is a â€Å"situation in which our expectations about people affect our interaction with them in such a way that helps our expectations be fulfilled. † For instance, in dealing with the group member that is having difficulties in participating, if we allowed our expectations to influence how we interact with her, we will never be able to address this issue and we will maintain status quo. Moreover, I could improve on a personal level and work on my procrastinating issue, which will eventually improve the overall performance of the group. I believe I already took the first step towards addressing this issue by recognizing it and admitting that it’s a negative behavior that needs to be eliminated. Another step, in my opinion, in addressing this issue is identifying whether I am procrastinating due to external reasons or internal reasons. External reasons could vary from time constraint to the type of job at hand, and internal reasons could be lack of motive or laziness. I tend to believe it’s the latter, as I occasionally procrastinate some tasks that are not work related or that does not have a time constraint. Procrastination is a habit that develops over time and hence, needs time to be eliminated. Although it is true that it is not a permanent habit of mine, i. e. it comes irregularly, it still affects my performance and hinders my abilities. I started trying to reward my self upon completing tasks, in an attempt to avoid putting off those tasks for later. How to cite Reflection On Experience, Papers

Cross-cultural Interactions free essay sample

Communication differs in various cultures. A multinational or a global company employs a great number of people with different cultural traits. Some may possess traits that are good for business when sent to countries away from home and some may not take up this responsibility well. People with different values respond in various ways to leadership especially from leaders from a different background or culture. Cultural diversity is very wide and this would cause to some extent difficulties for a foreigner in a strange land. This is mainly because the foreigner has ittle or no knowledge of the lands culture. For instance being a German and working in a subsidiary of the German mother company in China, I have come to realize the big difference that there is in various cultures. The team that I work with is a cross- cultural team. National culture does not fit with the organizational culture from my experience in this cross-cultural team. We will write a custom essay sample on Cross-cultural Interactions or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page National culture is the values that an individual learns early in life and continues to grow or change slowly with generations. It is highly held in individuals hence difficult to influence . Organizational culture on the other hand means the wide guidelines that are created by an organization and is rooted on the Job tasks and practices.. It is a programmed way of thinking and reacting. It is used to differentiate a certain category of people from the other. Due to the deeply held national culture by people, it is difficult to change the organizational culture especially in a cross-cultural team. This is because for some, the organizational culture goes against the national culture therefore the practices of the organization will be taken for granted and undermined e. . a eadership trait which falls under an organizational culture can be easily shunned by a particular employee from a different culture if the trait is against his/her national trait. I encounter various tensions at my workplace. A group of a certain culture will follow or conform to a certain set of values and beliefs, and the other would differ from them. A large group with a set of similar values would f all in the same culture. The minority and the majority therefore have conflict when it comes to certain situations within the team. For instance, Germans are always on schedule and very unctual. This is their national culture. In the cross-cultural team there are people who have different perception when it comes to keeping time. When it comes to attending meetings for instance, there will be a set of people who will be punctual and those who will be late. This is a cause for tension within the cross-cultural team. Tension is a known cause for a decrease in a companys productivity. Action should therefore be taken to resolve tension or conflict in these teams. Conflict is a challenge that is always faced by a team that is cross-cultural because it arises from time to time. The success and failure of a team depends on its response in time of conflict. To initiate organizational changes, I have done research and have come up with a plan of giving lessons to my team members. These lessons dont give a direct solution to the conflicts but guidance on how to prevent, respond to and manage tension. The tips in my lesson plan include: Knowledge ot one selt and culture- when one becomes aware ot his culture, i. e. here he/she comes from and who he/she really is, it becomes easier to understand other peoples background hence become open to different ideas. This can be chieved by establishing friendship within the team Being inquisitive- ask other members with a different background from yours about your new environment and how best things are run and more importantly know how to deal with situations to avoid conflict Listen to people from a differen t culture effectively to have a better understanding of one anothers ways. This should only be done in situations where it doesnt cause discomfort. Learn the expectations of others by having conversations about conflicts and the way forward when it arises. Management culture that suits every single person from a different culture should be ut in place. Management culture is one of the most critical leadership tools. In my opinion, a type of management that respects the differences and similarities of all employees should be adopted. Excellent organizational culture is the main goal of a company or an organization in regards toa cross-cultural team. To achieve this goal, management culture must be put in place . First of all, understanding the uniqueness and the differences of each individual is very important. This is largely referred to as work place diversity. Diversity entails religious beliefs, gender, race, age, political beliefs, sexual orientation and ethnicity. To deal effectively with this, the HR should check on issues such as communication, coping with differences and change. Management culture is important because it creates a comfortable and positive working environment hence higher productivity from the employees. The following management strategies should be adopted: Acquiring knowledge about different cultures and their ways of conducting business The leaders should nurture the communication, creative and cultural skills of various employees and utilize these skills to improve the policies, customer service and their products Being open minded. This involves leaders and their employees coming out of their comfort zone and accepting ways that they are not familiar with in terms of management. People from different backgrounds can factor in better and fresh ideas which could result in better services and performance Formulation of programs that will recognize the diversity of each individual. This will result in more interest in their roles Posting employees to areas where they can advance culturally Language training Taking care of employees complaints and issues Testing the organizations practices to make sure that no discrimination against any ulture is practiced. At times, conflict becomes inevitable between members in the subsidiary. It always happens when there are people with a variety of different expectations. In a situation like this, I would resolve to a different way of handling conflict. The first step would be to make the employees aware of the difference in culture among them. Apart from making them aware, I would formulate a program where all employees will be taught about the existence ot diversity and to learn ways ot respecting these different values and practices. Encouraging the team to take up tasks overseas henever an opportunity arises is another positive way to handle inevitable conflicts. This will improve the interaction of employees with different backgrounds and cultures. The more knowledgeable they get about a variety of cultures, the more understanding of each other they also get. To avoid recurring tensions, another important strategy to follow through is to offer counselling to employees and their families that are moving to a new country. This can be done before and after the international assignment . When positive relationships are built between diverse individuals, a deeper understanding of each other is formed.

A lesson on the obsession of technology Essays - Education, Pedagogy

A lesson on the obsession of technology Today alone, I asked Johnny five times to put his new iPhone 7 plus away, before he did for a whole minute. This was followed by Alice's phone buzzing incessantly with messages throughout the lesson; yes, it was in her pencil case but that didn't make it any less distracting for the whole class. And, you wouldn't believe my senior English class has a draft due in just a few days when Josie and Lily are squawking about some post reaching 100 likes on Facebook. The amount of times I have had to remind students to put their phones or devices away is ridiculous - definitely equal to or more than we have actually spent revising the structure for their essay. Surely, they must stop and think, sometimes, that school work is important. Students nowadays, some 89% according to the Sensis report 2016, are always using technology, any type, anytime, anywhere. But then again, I'm sure you can relate. You are all parents, after all, of these new age, technology obsessed students, who almost literally have their phones glued to them for the entirety of the day. Some of you, might even have more than one tech-obsessed teen at home. So, today, we are gathered because I feel I have found a solution to help you, and to help your student achieve better in this technologically addicted world I propose, quite simply, that we insert a technology repellent brain chip into their heads. Don't worry though! It is not permanent; it will only remain there for the duration of their school life Why, you ask? Well, just close your eyes a minute and imagine! Imagine the possibilities of no technology to distract them, you can have a peace in mind that your children will not be accessing any inappropriate sites and they can finally reach their potential in academia achievement. The statistics alone support my proposal. Technology is a way of life for teenagers with 95% of ages between 12-17 spending time online. These years are a prime period of schooling for students, well I wouldn't call Charlie a student let alone a human being, whoever is the mother and father of Charlie Coplestone, if you are reading this, please lock that thing up before it is released into the wild. Anyway, back to statistics, according to the 2010, Pew Research Study, the reality was that teachers are not the centre of attention like they should be anymore; stating that, "64 percent of teens with mobile phones said they would have texted in class at least 2-4 times a day". A recent report by a correspondent at Technician, Abhishek Karadkar stated that getting too involved in technology can lead to an addiction that inculcates bad habits. Students prefer to chat or game with friends for hours and this leads to a waste of time that could have been used for studying, playi ng or learning new skills'. Why we must act now, you ask, would you rather the prospect of your child obtaining poor academic results, due to the adverse effects and distractions of technology, or would you rather your child achieve academia success, allowing the freedom of your child to select what profession they would like to take on, but with the slim chance of your child to develop a brain disorder. Oops forgot to mention that. Latest results show that there is a minimal chance of damage, 4 out of 5, to be exact. The risk is that there is a slight possibility that your child will incur a brain disorder from this experience. But hey, better odds of success to permanent brain damage. Once the chip is implanted into the students brains, this package will also come with a small device that will give both you and teachers the courtesy of monitoring the students and their academia progress, in the click of button. On this device, there will be a group page for all users in the class and teachers to communicate and pose any concerns. This device will help observe the progress of the students and therefore teachers can help target their weak spots, in terms of subjects or specific units

Preparing for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT)

Preparing for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) Preparing for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) Whether you have studied Japanese in school, have participated in a study abroad program in Japan, or may be moving to Japan for business or personal reasons, you may want to take the Japanese Language Proficiency Test. There are several reasons for this: You will get a feel for how much of the language you have mastered, so that you can set goals for preparing to take the higher levels of the test You will get a certificate when you pass each of Japanese language proficiency test levels, and you will have these as evidence that you are proficient in the language. This will be important if you should seek employment in Japan You may want to be employed as a translator in your home country, either for private industry or for the government in some capacity. Having the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) certification, especially at the highest level, will be your proof that you have the required knowledge and skills. You may want to re-locate to Japan for personal reasons. Taking this test will allow you to determine your own proficiency. Preparing for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test The test is given on the same day, all over the world. In some places, outside of the U.S. (there are 16 testing centers in the U.S.), it is given multiple times a year. The first part of your preparation, of course, is to register, which you can do on the official site of the testing organization. You will pay your fee and receive a registration card with a number. That number will be assigned to you at a specific testing site. But even before that, you need to identify which of the five Japanese Language Proficiency Test Levels you will want to select. You must select which test you want to take during the registration process. In order to do that, you need to know very specifically which level is best suited for you. Here is a summary of each of those levels: N5: This is the lowest level test, and it demonstrates your ability to read and understand basic Japanese. The reading portion of the test will require that you comprehend sentences and common expressions that are written in katakana, kanji, and hiragana. The listening portion will test your ability to understand conversation about common topics encountered in classrooms and everyday life. N4: This test also has a reading and a listening portion and will assess your ability to do all of those things in the N5 level, plus your ability to read more difficult material in kanji with a stronger vocabulary and knowledge of kanji characters. N3: the N3 level is probably most appropriate for those who are re-locating to Japan and who need to be able to navigate through more complex daily living situations. The reading section will incorporate everything in N5 and N4 levels but include additional materials, such as news summaries and short literary passages. The listening portion still revolves around everyday situations but requires ability to understand when the language is spoken at a moderate pace. N2: To select this test and have a good chance of passing it, you will need to read passages on a variety of topics – literary, news and magazine articles, and to be able to relate intent and opinions of the writers. The listening portion will contain conversations on lots of topics at an almost normal speed, and you will need to demonstrate that you understand facts and nuances of conversations. N1: This is the most difficult of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test levels and should be selected by those who have strong proficiency. The reading portion will require comprehension and analysis of complex content – news editorials, literary works, abstract concepts, etc. Listening will be at normal rates of speed and require a substantial vocabulary in order to understand and interpret conversations, news reports, etc. Studying and Preparing for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test Learning a language is a cumulative process, and you are at some level of proficiency. Certainly, you can prepare for the test by studying additional vocabulary and continuing to practice reading passages at your level. Perhaps the best preparation is to immerse yourself, either physically or online, into a Japanese environment. There are plenty of Japanese students looking for partners in English to practice their language skills. Set up a cooperative relationship and, through Skype or another live chat app, set a scheduled time to hook up and converse several times a week. Barring that, find a local group of Japanese students on campus or a local Japanese-American organization. If you are a current college student, locate a Japanese foreign student and set up a cooperative arrangement. You can assist with their coursework demands, even with their college essay writing. In turn, they can tutor you in the language. Access the Japanese Language Proficiency Test site, and link to the sample questions for each level of the test. You will also find a link to the official practice workbooks, again separated by test level. Scoring and Results Notification Individual scores are sent to examinees; they will also be available online by registration/identification number. In general, those students who take the test in July will receive their scores and certificates by early October. Those who take a December test will receive results by early March. If the test is taken in Japan, scores will be published a month earlier in each case. Results are on a Pass/Fail basis, and there is a minimum score for each section of a test in order to receive a passing grade. If any section of a test fall into the â€Å"fail† section, the student fails the entire test. Certificates of passage are mailed to everyone who has passed. The Takeaway The Japanese Language Proficiency Test is a fully objective test, that is, it does not require composition, as many other standardized tests and application/admissions testing does. The value of such a test, and the certificate that comes with it, however, does demonstrate that you have enough proficiency to comprehend verbal and written communication in the language. If you are a student in a Japanese institution, for example, you will be able to understand the lectures and the readings. Writing is another matter, however, and that may take some additional time and work. Until you establish that proficiency, you can always find a Japanese friend, agency, or tutor and state, â€Å"Write my papers,† in exchange for a bit of cash or a reciprocal favor.

Gustave Caillebott's Rainy Day In Paris Term Paper

Gustave Caillebott's Rainy Day In Paris - Term Paper Example It reflects categorically the works of construction that characterized Baron Haussmann building. This paper gives acritical analysis of artwork detailing its author, key significance, how it conforms to culture, style, and color of production. It also contains the visual analysis of its composition and depth of painting. Evidently, the oil painting was executed based on quality guidelines of fine artwork. The object is clearly presented, well-shaped, painted with good color, and composition. It is also clear and in good shape and size, that enables effective view and conceptualization. That is, the object has a clear view including other subsidiary objects in its surrounding that include the human beings (Lehrer 140). Particularly, the painting of the rainy day is balanced as they are placed at strategic areas that ensure balancing of the painting material without learning towards the left or right side. The size of the painting and space also enables viewers to see the paintings clearly thereby execute accurate differentiations. The artist utilized the space accurately, optimally to ensure that the objects are balanced effectively, colored appropriately, and presentation is done in good sizes. Subsequently, the painting is colorful and strongly in-depth based on its structure. As noted, the rainy Day is a piece of work that has received immense accreditation as a superior artwork with relevant cultural significance. The artwork portrays a great picture of urban life depicting how people move along the streets and between buildings, the structural design of the urban cities and the dress code (Purdy 125). This is apparent as the picture depicts the place de Dublin that is located at a road intersection point eastwards of Gare Saint-lazare. From the painting, one can see buildings, couples walking and people moving with umbrellas. Its main theme is to enlighten individuals about the cultural practices in urban areas including how people move about

Arab Nationalism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Arab Nationalism - Essay Example Quite simply stated, the Arab conquest of the region gave birth to the Arab World, to the notion of Arab unity and to the Arab peoples themselves. It took a diverse group of people and gave them a common language, culture, religion and, over time, a common identity. It is, thus, that the Arab conquest of the region stands out as one of the most significant turning points in the history of the Middle East and, indeed, the roots of Arab Nationalism can be directly traced to it (Hitti, 1943). Arab nationalism, tracing its roots to the Moslem conquest of north Africa and the Levantine, has survived over the millennia due to a complex set of historical and political circumstances. The concept of the Arab nation and of Arab nationalism is based on historical circumstances which have a strong psychological appeal. As argued by Karsh (2001) in "Misunderstanding Arab Nationalism," this concept represents the historical successes, and power that the Arabs had achieved when they were united as a single empire from the eleventh to the nineteenth century. Since the collapse of that Empire, however, the Arabs have achieved little and have, indeed, devolved into twenty-two third world nations which have little, if any, political and economic influence over world affairs (Karsh, 2001). Indeed, until recently, there was hardly a country in the Arab World which was not colonized and whose sovereignty was not in question. Even today, and despite the supposed collapse of colonialism, many of the Arab countries remain under the political, economic and military domination of Western powers. Iraq is occupied; Sudan suffers political and economic sanctions; parts of Lebanon and Syria are occupied by Israel and, most of Palestine has been lost, and the remainder is under Israeli occupation. As Baram (2003) contends, as they look at their present, the Arab people increasingly realise the extent of their weakness and tend to connect their present situation to their division, even as they relate their past glory to their historic unity. Comparisons between their past and present maintain the dream of Arab unity and ensure that the concept of Arab nationalism remains alive. Hence, if Arab nationalism is rooted in history, it also has its roots in the current reality of the Arab nations and populations. The psychological appeal and popularity of Arab nationalism are reflected in the ideologies that emerged from the Arab World following the collapse of colonialism. These ideologies, such as Baathism and Nasserism, were based upon the concept of pan-Arabism and Arab Unity. Baathism, developed in Syria in the 1930s as a specific response to the weakness of the Arab nation and their status as colonized countries (Baram, 2003). Baathism was based on the argument that the Arabs shared a common language, history, and culture making them one people. Accordingly, the natural condition for the Arabs was unity and strength and the unnatural condition was division and weakness (Baram, 2003). The significant point about Baathism is not just that it became the official ideology of Arab countries like Syria and Iraq, but that it was extremely popular among the Arab masses. Another popular ideology in the Arab World, Nasserism, emerged in the 1950s and similarly argued that Arab unity was the goal that all Arab countries should work to reach. As a matter of fact, it is possible to argue that the

Homework Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 10

Homework - Assignment Example In investigating measles, epidemiologists embark on various strategic steps that enable them get information. The first step involves preparation for fieldwork which entails getting the right tools, information, support staff and personal arrangements. Information on measles can be obtained from past research on measles (Bystrianyk & Humphries 2013). Additionally, the epidemiologist should delegate roles and responsibilities at this stage of investigations. The second step should be verification that the suspected disease exists. Besides, they ought to establish whether there is an outbreak. Before one decides whether there is an outbreak, they have to determine the number of cases that are expected from an area within a given period. In determining the number of measles cases, for example, one can use the health department surveillance records. The records help determine whether there is an epidemic. Finally, it is important to do a prior investigation before the actual investigatio n. For instance, one can visit some of the children suffering from measles and try to get useful information on the condition. Furthermore, once the data has been collected a measles outbreak should be characterized by place, time and person. This technique is called descriptive epidemiology because it deals with description of what has occurred in the population being studied. This description allows one to evaluate the outbreak on what is recognized about the disease and develop causal hypothesis. These hypotheses can be tested using analytic epidemiology technology. Analytic epidemiology has two components, the cohort and the case-control studies. They help in developing the null and the alternative hypotheses. These hypotheses are later refined after carrying out additional epidemiological study (Bystrianyk & Humphries 2013). The hypothesis is then used in developing and implementing of control measures. Finally, the findings should be presented to bodies such as the

Animal Assisted Therapy

Animal Assisted Therapy The man-animal bond has existed since time immemorial and has always been a beautiful one. Keeping a pet is a wonderful and rewarding experience and has many advantages. Animal therapy, also called Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT), consists of a wide range of activities and a diverse group of animals that are able to help. [Animal therapy, also called Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT), is a blanket term for a wide range of activities, good-for-you benefits, and a diverse group of animals that are able to help.] 7 This process is a goal directed intervention in which an animal meeting specific criteria is an integral part of the treatment process. [Animal assisted therapy (AAT) is a goal directed intervention in which an animal meeting specific criteria is an integral part of the treatment process] 7 Dogs, cats, rabbits, fish, horses, dolphins, elephants and birds have calming effect on humans [However, rabbits, fish, horses, dolphins, elephants, birds, and lizards can also be considered calming, as well as other small animals]. 6 Programs involving these types of animals are being introduced into the therapeutic regimens of many health care institutions: nursing homes, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, psychiatric institutions and even correctional facilities [3]. [Companion animals are being introduced into the therapeutic regimens of many health care institutions: nursing homes, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, psychiatric instiutions and others] 2 Therapeutic horse riding programs have been proven to increase the strength and stability of physically and mentally challenged individuals. The repetitive motion of sitting on the horse is known to help balance and coordination and thus improve the motor skills. This is also known as equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) [2]. [horse therapies have been proven to increase the strength and stability of physically and mentally challenged individuals. Specifically, horse AAT therapy is called equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP)] 6 Fish tanks, seen in restaurants, homes, doctors offices, in shopping malls and aquariums are larger than life stress relievers. [Fish tanks have long been seen in restaurants, homes, doctors offices, in shopping malls, and aquariums are larger than life stress relievers] 6 Dolphin therapy started in the 1970s in Florida as a way to motivate children with Down syndrome. [. Dolphin therapy started in the 1970s in Florida as a way to motivate children with Down syndrome.] 6 A marine biologist Amanda Green says that dolphins use their underwater sonar waves as a healing process to boost T-cells in humans. Many therapists believe that a dolphins sonar causes a phenomenon called cavitation inside the soft body tissue of the human body. It precipitates a ripping apart of the molecules [6]. [A marine biologist Amanda Green, says that research is currently being done to support this but new hospital methods are offering technology that acts like sonar, Many therapists believe that a dolphins sonar causes a phenomenon called cavitation inside the soft body tissue of the human body.] 6 Pets also help inmates in correctional facilities and juvenile offenders to learn empathy and compassion [2]. [Pets help inmates in correctional facilities and juvenile offenders to learn empathy and compassion.] 2 Pets have proved to be great stress busters. Gazing at fish swimming lazily in the aquarium soothes ones nerves and reduces stress. The physical contact of petting an animal is relaxing and studies have shown that it helps lower blood pressure.[ Medical studies and clinical research show that a therapy dog can not only have medical benefits such as stress relief, or lower blood pressure] Since dogs and cats are the most common household pets, it should be no surprise that cuddling with them can provide a calm and soothing relief. [Since dogs and cats are the most common household pets, no one should be surprised that cuddling with your little friends can provide a calm and soothing relief.] 6 While dolphins and horses have important physical and emotional benefits, they cannot live inside the house. Dogs can! Dogs that are specially trained to work with the disabled persons offer many different services. They can guide people who are visually impaired, alert people who are hearing impaired to specific sounds, get help when a person has a seizure, as well as retrieve dropped items, open doors, and assist the person with postural balance. [1] [They can guide people who are visually impaired, alert people who are hearing impaired to specific sounds, get help when a person has a seizure, as well as retrieve dropped items, open doors, and assist the person with balance. ] 1 Dogs also provide companionship that is critical to the development of children with disabilities, says Elcock [1]. [A variety of programs nationwide use animals to assist children with chronic illness and disabilities, notes Maryellen Elcock, Ph.D] 1 Perhaps the most well-known method of animal assisted therapy is used with dogs. Besides dogs being wonderful companions and helpful to the blind, trained dogs are brought to schools, hospitals, and nursing homes in order to bring joy [2].   Just the simple act of spending time with a dog, and the exercise involved with petting and walking with a dog helps patients and the elderly exert themselves physically. [Just the simple act of spending time with a dog, and the exercise involved with petting and walking with a dog helps patients and the elderly exert themselves physically] 6 Within the first hour of spending time with a dog, a persons blood pressure is known to drop, mental function improves, and smiles often show up. Certain trained dogs are able to help patients with their wheelchair abilities and memory problems. Loneliness can be curbed by spending time with a friendly animal. [Within the first hour of spending time with a dog, a persons blood pressure is known to drop, mental function improves, and smiles often show up. Certain trained dogs are able to assist patients with their wheelchair abilities, cognitive function, memory problems, and some patients even adopt maternal instincts while interacting with the animals. Loneliness can be curbed by spending time with a friendly animal and some think cats can also provide such love.] 6 Animal-assisted activities and animal-assisted therapy applies one of the strongest benefits of the human-animal bond the power to heal. Many organizations are associated with these activities. Canine Assistants is a Georgia-based organization that trains dogs to help children and adults across the country with physical disabilities resulting from muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, automobile accidents and other causes. [Canine Assistants is a Georgia-based organization that trains dogs primarily labradors and golden retrievers to help children and adults across the country with physical disabilities resulting from muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, automobile accidents and other causes] 1 These dogs can do some remarkable tasks for their disabled handlers. They can turn lights on and even open doors. Once they go home with a participant, they can build on the skills they have learned and accomplish even more specific tasks even helping with the laundry or making a bed, says Kellie Mann, programs coordinator for Canine Assistants [1]. [Once they go home with a participant, they can build on the skills they have learned and accomplish even more specific tasks even helping with the laundry or making a bed, says Kellie Mann, programs coordinator for Canine Assistants. ] 1 The therapeutic potential and spiritual qualities of companion animals have long been recognized from the Ancient Egyptians who worshipped cats, even mummifying them and burying them in sacred vaults along the River Nile, to the Ancient Greeks who kept healing dogs in their temples. [Ancient Egyptians who worshipped cats, even mummifying them and burying them in sacred vaults along the River Nile, to the Ancient Greeks who kept healing dogs in their temples] 3 Florence Nightingale was one of the first people to advocate the benefits of companion animals for the chronically sick. [Florence Nightingale was one of the first people to advocate the benefits of companion animals for the chronically sick] 3 American child psychologist Boris Levinson is the first person to be credited with the formal use of animals in AAT within a clinical field in 1962. Levinson discovered that he could make significant progress during the treatment of a disturbed child when his dog Jingles was also present during the sessions. [3]   Kids and animals are natural companions. For children with disabilities, that companionship can also include invaluable physical and emotional therapy. Whether its strengthening muscles through horseback riding, feeling motivated to improve while swimming with dolphins or gaining confidence with the help and companionship of a service dog, kids with disabilities can benefit from many different kinds of animals. Animals offer all children the chance to connect to another living being, says Dr. Abhaey Kripalani, Secretary, Minds and Souls Rehabilitation and Research Foundation on Children with Disabilities. But for kids with disabilities, animals can also provide invaluable therapy, he says. Riding a horse, for example, can help a child physically strengthen his or her muscles while also serving as recreation that builds self-esteem [1].   Dr. Anjana Maitra, in her book: Pet Therapy: A New Healing Concept: states that 92% patients hospitalized in coronary care units for angina or heart attack found that those who owned pets were more likely to be alive a year later than those who did not. The study found that only 6% of patients who owned pets died within a year compared with 28% of those who did not own pets. 9 In Thrive, Volume 2, Issue 9, July 2008, A Four-Legged Cure, Heather Grimshaw states that researchers around the world have shown a direct correlation between pet ownership and improved health. [Researchers around the world have shown a direct correlation between pet ownership and improved health] 4 From increased survival rates after heart attacks and surgery to reducing stress, depression, and anxiety, pet ownership may not just improve mental and physical health, it may actually extend a persons life [4].   According to a case report, the use of AAA highlights a Labrador Retriever named Murphy who helped a four year old child with cerebral palsy take her first steps. As the child took slow steps forward, Murphy would respond by taking steps backward, thereby motivating the child to continue taking steps. The child was able to take four steps for the first time in her life [5]. A study of middle-aged schizophrenic patients showed improvement in adaptive functioning during AAT program. 5 An Independent Living Skills tool was then used to rate patients behaviors. It was found that patients health, domestic activities, and social skills improved significantly. [4] [An Independent Living Skills tool was then used to rate patients behaviors] 5 Edward Creagan, MD, a professor at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota, has encouraged oncology patients to get pets for the last 30 years. Studies suggest that pets can do more than keep you young at heart, he said during an educational summit called PAWSitive InterAction in Atlanta. They can help keep your heart-and the rest of you-younger and healthier. [Edward Creagan, MD, a professor at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota, has encouraged oncology patients to get pets for the last 30 years. Studies suggest that pets can do more than keep you young at heart, he said during an educational summit called PAWSitive InterAction in Atlanta. They can help keep your heart-and the rest of you-younger and healthier.] 4 To support his recommendations, Creagan cited studies, which show that pet owners are four times more likely to live a full year after surviving a heart attack than non-owners. In the study cited, 28 percent of the patients without pets died before one year. [4] [To support his recommendations, Creagan cited studies, which show that pet owners are four times more likely to live a full year after surviving a heart attack than non-owners. In the study cited, 28 percent of the patients without pets died before the one-year mark] 4 A wellness program involving animal health, human health and environmental concerns should be done for animals participating in AAA and AAT. All animals involved in this therapeutic work should be healthy and of good temperament. Animals should be closely monitored for signs of stress. They also undergo periodic behavioral assessment and if needed, participate in behavior monitoring and rehabilitation program. Optimal environment should be provided to all animals in the form of toys, regular walks or grooming. Good veterinary care should be provided to all the involved animals.[7] [Animal assisted activities, animal-assisted therapy, and resident animal programs should be governed by basic standards, be regularly monitored, and be staffed by appropriately trained personnel.] 7 Pet assisted therapy is a tremendous tool in improving patient communication, self esteem, physical movement, mood and sociability. [ Studies have shown that pet assisted therapy is a tremendous tool in improving patient communication, cognitive function, self esteem, physical movement, mood and sociability] 8 Many children will have disabilities for the rest of their lives, but working with animals can give them the motivation, physical therapy, comfort, companionship and confidence that often lead to real progress in their abilities. [Many children will have disabilities for the rest of their lives, but working with animals can give them the motivation, physical therapy, comfort, companionship and confidence that often leads to real progress in their abilities] 1 The use of animal-assisted therapy has grown tremendously in recent times, particularly in the United States, where there are more than 2,000 programs [3].  

The Flaw in an Impersonal Relationship Essay -- Philosophy, Stoic

Much of the knowledge pertaining to virtue is the resulting work of Stoics, such as Plato, Aristotle, and Marcus Aurelius. Stoicism can be referred to as the foundation of Christianity however, the lack of a personal relationship with â€Å"The One† or God prevents Stoics' souls from reaching their great potential. Principally, Stoics fundamentally believed that â€Å"every event that occurs in the cosmos, from the most important to the most trivial, was fated to occur, and determined to occur† (Brennan, 235). They were fatalists. Furthermore, Stoics, as a whole, tended to view the physical and intellectual world in analytical and logical terms. In Stoicism and its Influence, R. M. Wenley makes the point that â€Å"the Stoics attempted to frame a theory of the physical universe, of the individual man as he finds himself under compulsion in this universe and, combining the two, to formulate a rule of life in conformity with Reason† (75). Consequently, Stoics wanted to achieve an other-worldly understanding of the physical and intellectual world they resided in. Moreover, the most important contribution to their central argument was that the highest good lies in virtue, and that the final purpose for man is to achieve happiness. To achieve said good, many Stoics, like Plato, believed a set, careful process primarily focused in education and meditation was necessary. Marcus Aurelius, a Roman Emperor and Stoic, believed that through â€Å"following after the things produced according to nature†, one could begin to develop a virtuous soul, as shown in his Meditations (Book III: 2). Continuing his discourse of Platonic and Aristotelian principles, in Book II, line 7, Aurelius advises his reader to â€Å"give thyself time to learn something new and good, a... ... (Romans 16: 25-27). In addition to reading these sacred texts, Christians had to abandon logic and reason and simply rely on their faith in order to achieve this happiness. In conclusion, the wisdom achieved through Stoic principles is the foundation of the Christian religion. However, the impersonal relationship central to Stoic philosophy prevents its followers from obtaining the glorious after life known to Christians. The element of reason woven into the foundation of Stoicism greatly hindered the potential of its believers. Unlike the Stoics, Christians' personal relationship with their monotheistic God not only endows them with the instructions necessary to daily life, but also eliminates all mystery regarding the after life. Christians know without a single shred of doubt that their eternal life with their monotheistic God will be full of peace and bliss.

Recommendation Letter Essay

In my opinion, I have never before written a recommendation letter where the candidate and the opportunity were such a perfect fit. I have known Janet Lerner for two years now, since she took my introductory course in dinosaurs during her sophomore year. In my long teaching career, I have never met an undergraduate student with such a genuine and focused interest in paleontology, and such a clear aptitude for it. I will demonstrate this by speaking to Janet’s ability as a communicator, her specific interest in dinosaur paleontology, and her maturity and integrity. Janet informs me that you are seeking a skilled communicator to give tours of your animatronic displays. Even during her sophomore year, Janet was a skilled communicator on the subject of dinosaur paleontology. In my class, for which she received an A, Janet wrote two compositions: one on the roots of the discovery and the characteristics of Deinonychus; one evaluating the defensive capabilities of Euoplocephalus. Janet proved herself not only exceptionally articulate and schooled on the subject at hand, but she also showed herself capable of wielding an argument—moving from premise to conclusion based on relevant evidence. Janet also did all this with style and flair. I cite excerpts from her papers: â€Å"Previously seen as cold-blooded, pea-brained lizards . . .† and â€Å"The toe muscles acted as a spring mechanism to flick the claw around towards the back of the foot.† For me, such articulations underscore both Janet’s authentic fascination with dinosaurs and her ability to communicate that excitement and knowledge to others. As an academic advisor to the dormitory where Janet lives, I frequently witness her interactions with others and know first-hand of her community service. Last year, Janet was the elected vice-president in the dormitory, and in this role she was responsible for numerous functions, including faculty/student lunches and a recruiting phoneathon. Janet is well-respected in the dormitory—a popular figure known for her honesty, calm, and kindness. I have seen her handle delicate situations with discretion, and she handles herself in all situations with poise. Finally, Janet has strong convictions tempered by good judgment and reason; she has firm spiritual roots and an active, diverse, social life; she is loyal, committed, and clear-sighted. It is a rare treat to encounter a student as impressive as Janet Lerner, and if you give her the opportunity I am sure you will find her equally impressive. Please do give her your most thoughtful consideration.

Free Essays on Canadian Womens History

Kinnear defines â€Å"work† as any activity culminating in a service or product, whether or not that activity is paid. Beyond the orthodox criterion of payment, work thus includes farming, child-rearing, housework and volunteer public service. Kinnear relies on Nancy Cott’s definition of feminism- belief in equality with men, a conviction that gender roles are socially constructed, and recognition of gender consciousness- but makes it clear that prairie women in this period were especially affected by ethnicity, class, marriage, geographic location, and immigrant status. Although prairie society was predominantly British, attitudes were coloured by cultural norms from Eastern Europe. Women sometimes kept their marital status a secret, and some women of Jewish extraction hid this part of their identity. Kinnear’s use of definitions helps to show links between these various factors. Kinnear emphasizes one essential difference between rural and urban living. Contrary to the popular assumption that farm wives had a more difficult role than women living in urban areas, she argues that rural women saw themselves as equal partners with their husbands, who well knew that the family could not survive economically without women’s work. Although urban areas saw greater mechanization of household tasks coupled with higher standards of cleanliness, women who stayed at home while their husbands went out to waged occupations were not considered equal partners. Education and training were crucial to women who wanted to improve their status and gain access to the paid economy. Kinnear cites a number of milestones: the introduction of compulsory education (with English as the single language of instruction) in 1916; curriculum development during the interwar years to include courses in vocational education, domestic science, and home economics; and post-World War II expanded accessibility and greater standardization of educational opportunity. M... Free Essays on Canadian Women's History Free Essays on Canadian Women's History Kinnear defines â€Å"work† as any activity culminating in a service or product, whether or not that activity is paid. Beyond the orthodox criterion of payment, work thus includes farming, child-rearing, housework and volunteer public service. Kinnear relies on Nancy Cott’s definition of feminism- belief in equality with men, a conviction that gender roles are socially constructed, and recognition of gender consciousness- but makes it clear that prairie women in this period were especially affected by ethnicity, class, marriage, geographic location, and immigrant status. Although prairie society was predominantly British, attitudes were coloured by cultural norms from Eastern Europe. Women sometimes kept their marital status a secret, and some women of Jewish extraction hid this part of their identity. Kinnear’s use of definitions helps to show links between these various factors. Kinnear emphasizes one essential difference between rural and urban living. Contrary to the popular assumption that farm wives had a more difficult role than women living in urban areas, she argues that rural women saw themselves as equal partners with their husbands, who well knew that the family could not survive economically without women’s work. Although urban areas saw greater mechanization of household tasks coupled with higher standards of cleanliness, women who stayed at home while their husbands went out to waged occupations were not considered equal partners. Education and training were crucial to women who wanted to improve their status and gain access to the paid economy. Kinnear cites a number of milestones: the introduction of compulsory education (with English as the single language of instruction) in 1916; curriculum development during the interwar years to include courses in vocational education, domestic science, and home economics; and post-World War II expanded accessibility and greater standardization of educational opportunity. M...

Alpha Tyre Essay Example

Alpha Tyre Essay Example Alpha Tyre Essay Alpha Tyre Essay Alpha Tyre Company Case is intended to be a part of instruction material developed for teaching at a Marketing class in Business Schools. Alpha is not a real company – any resemblance to a real corporation is co-incidental. Case facts are for discussion only and are not intended to be a demonstrator of correct or incorrect handling of management situation. Alpha Tyre Company (ALPHA) is engaged in the manufacture and sale of car tyres. Most of ALPHA’s business is conducted primarily through the OE (Original Equipment) route, selling to automobile manufacturers such as Maruti, Hyundai, Tata, Honda, Toyota and Hindustan Motors. The company has a strong presence in the OE market and it wants to protect its dominance in this space. However, ALPHA is lagging behind in the replacement market with minimal brand recall in the market place. In the overall tyre market, ALPHA has a small share since it specializes in car tyres only. The big Indian players in the market like MRF, CEAT and JK wield a wide range of tyres – for two-wheelers, three-wheelers, cars, utility vehicles, and commercial vehicles i. e. trucks and buses. The company’s new CEO, who has recently been brought in from a Consumer Durables company, fears that a low brand recall in the replacement market would adversely affect their OE market share and therefore wants to develop a growth strategy to expand the company’s replacement market share. The Marketing department at ALPHA did not have a consistent and researched understanding of what drove tyre sales and how customers went about buying car tyres. Past research findings by ALPHA on consumer preferences have been sketchy and market information has been collected on ad-hoc basis. There is no evidence of any extensive study conducted on consumers and most of the theories going around in the company are based on hunches and ‘gut-feel’. Various strategies were used in the past to reach the customer target groups. The tyre-dealers were targeted through a rigourous sales process along with target-based schemes. Mechanics and Car Service Stations were reached through direct schemes. Mass Media and PR were used to communicate with end users. The Sales department has a different approach on what needs to be done in the replacement market – they believe that pushing the product with better dealer margins is the way to go and that the Marketing department is wasting time with Positioning and Brand Building. The quality of tyres is judged, among other factors, on the wear rate of the tyre, which was measured with a calibration device after certain specified usage intervals. ALPHA has a modern tyre testing lab and most of their tyres compare well vis-a-vis their competition in lab tests and road tests conducted by the company. To formulate a marketing strategy, Alpha needs to understand – a) What drives each type of customer to buy a particular brand of tyres. b) Each type of influencer that impacts a brand. c) The relative impact of customers and influencers on sales. d) What cues a good tyre and a good tyre company e) The gaps in the Strength and Weaknesses of its brand vis-a-vis the competition in the OE business and in the replacement market. You are doing your internship at Alpha tyres and the Senior VP of Marketing and Sales has asked you to build a marketing and sales plan†¦

Research Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 31

Research - Essay Example The findings linked with the studies done at Vancouver School of doing phenomenology to develop methods of answering the research questions. Moreover, the chosen method increased knowledge and understanding of the phenomena. The research used clinical, theoretical and policy findings as significant factors in the therapy of the disease. Clinical treatment incorporated exercises, to lessen the pain and rise fitness, as well as well-being of a patient (Petursdottir, Arnadottir & Halldorsdottir, 2010, p.3). Besides, theoretical aspects entailed the development of a conceptual model, which indicated many external and internal factors as having significant impacts on the exercise behavior among people with osteoarthritis. Policy in the curing of the disease included the adaptation of regular exercises at least thrice a day. Regular exercise would assist osteoarthritis patients to ease their muscles and reduce pain with joints around their hips and knees. Strict following of clinical, theoretical and policy aspects of osteoarthritis would greatly heal various patients and assist in reducing pain within their joints. Readers were able to hear and understand the phenomena studied, since the participants talked about physical therapists and physical therapy, as the main factors of the study. Moreover, clear communication of the members and a sense of positive connection equally contributed to an important aspect of the physical results. Readers can find elements of the research report, since all the aspects of the osteoarthritis categorized in the research, for easy access and analysis of the research findings. In addition, knowledge of the disease and practical experiences incorporated into the research report for readers to understand phenomenal aspects of osteoarthritis. Overall presentation of the research was suitable for the purpose, method and findings since statistics taken by the participants included the interpretation of charts and

Unisys Corporation Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Unisys Corporation - Term Paper Example Due to the fact that the company faced financing problems including a large debt, the procedure of this transformation proved to be not an easy task to accomplish. Today Unisys is a worldwide information technology services and solutions company. The company has presence in numerous areas of the world. On top of the company hierarchy are the Chairman and CEO, as well as the following leading positions: -Senior vice president, Worldwide Human Resources -Senior vice president / President, TCIS / President, WW Strategic Services -Senior vice president / President, Federal Systems (US government) -Senior vice president / President, Global Outsourcing & Infrastructure Services -Senior vice president & Chief Financial Officer - Senior vice president & Chief Information Officer - Senior vice president, Corporate Development - Senior vice president, General Counsel & Secretary -Vice Precident & Treasurer - Vice Precident & Corporate Controller At the subordinate levels there exists a number of Regional heads, that are responsible for specific areas of the world, and below them the country general managers. However the whole organizational structure not strictly vertical. There exist a number of company operations that are decentralized and others that are centralized. Competitors The main competitors of Unisys include the traditional large-scale computer manufacturers such as IBM, group BULL, Fujitsou and HP have been the main â€Å"traditional† competitors of Unisys in its Core business, the mainframes market. In addition during the resent years, those companies, as well as numerous new ones -e.g. consulting integrators such as Accenture - compete Unisys in the new market of Systems integrators and Integrated Solutions Providers. Problems of the Unisys Corporation Although... This essay stresses that most of the leading players realized that in order to maintain their leading position they had to become more client focused, i.e. more focused to the client needs than to just selling computer boxes. In that way they quite successfully transformed their products from just â€Å"computers† to solutions. Their marketing strategy changed in order to be service oriented rather than product oriented. Customers should now have to choose integrated IT solutions, not just IT systems. This is what made the difference. Unfortunately Unisys did not do that well in that field. Although the company did make efforts to become a systems/solutions integrator, by developing consulting services in parallel to selling products, it was not made possible to catch up with competition. As a consequence, the company profitability has fallen dramatically during the recent years. Financial results of the recent years have been relatively weak for a firm of such size. This article makes a conclusion that a new strategy and organizational change are required in order to reposition the Unisys brand name in order to create competitive advantage against its competitors, based on the improvement of the following main elements. Within the last decades Unisys has experienced certain problems due to its lack of solid strategy, increasing competition and market saturation. The company requires revising of its strategy and organizational structure in order to ensure its competitive advantage and leading position in its field in the years to come.

To what extent was the United States a world power in 1914 Essay

To what extent was the United States a world power in 1914 - Essay Example The main reasons as to why the foreign policy of the US government was isolationist in nature, is because the US still did not have enough resources and capability of worrying about the foreign affairs and problems of other countries (Hook and Scott, 2012). On this basis, the immediate concern of the United States was its internal environment. This was a period in which the US had just emerged from a costly civil war, and it was the intention of General Washington to expand the territories of United States (Hook and Scott, 2012). However, during the year 1890, the government of the United States began engaging with overseas territories (Black, 2003). The government decided to look for the markets of its products to foreign markets. This was not only for an economic benefit, but also for their territorial expansion (Hook and Scott, 2012). On this basis, the expansionist policy of the United States took an international approach. For instance, the American government sent an invasion force to Haiti, in 1915, with the intention of protecting American economic interests, as well as replacing the Haitian constitution which advocated against the foreign ownership of land (Kagan, 2003). On this basis, its invasion of Haiti was purely motivated by economic and territorial gains. It is important to denote that the expansionist policy practiced by the United States was under the context of the isolationist policy. The First World War played a significant role in shaping the global position of the United States. This is because the First World War negatively affected the global stability that was witnessed during the last 100 years (Kagan, 2003). On this basis, political isolation no longer served the interests of the United States., hence the country had to engage in a series of foreign affairs, that was never witnessed in the United States. It is important to denote that the First World War began in 1914 (Kagan,

Motivational Strategy and Action Plan Essay Example for Free

Motivational Strategy and Action Plan Essay Determine the motivational strategy or strategies that would likely be most appropriate for each of your three employees on basis of their individual characteristics. Indicate how you would leverage their employee evaluations to motivate each of the three employees. Describe one or more of the motivational theories and explain how the theories connect to each of your selected motivational strategies. Team Member Name Summary of Individual Characteristics Motivational Strategy and Action Plan Relevant Theory Tina Engaged Passionate Persistent Inspirational Leader Happy Emotional stable This employee would not really need much motivation, since already in engaged, passionate and is a leader at work. I would suggest that the employee uses an action plan to continue with positive attitude. Also since the employee has passed reviews, to advance in progress with promotions in the company. McClelland theory is relevant to this situation. It relates to this situation because for the most part the employee is happy at the job. Brittany Competitive Good communicator Influential Independent Emotional Quick thinker This employee shouldn’t much motivation since she is so competitive. However we could motivate her to be more engaged and happy at job since so emotional. An action plan for this strategy would be to assign her to do task she is interested and likes to do that are easy and take little thought since she is a quick thinker. This situation relates to the self-efficiency theory because employee is independent. She likes to do things on her own and feels she can. Denise Timid Considerate Neutral decision maker Eager Happy with job Encouraging This employee needs motivation in company involvement in communication since timid and shy. She can demonstrate these skills in an action plan by being more involved in conferences, presentations, and meetings. This situation could be also related to the McClelland theory because for the employee is happy with job, but there is room for opportunity.

Pain In Cardiothoracic Surgery Numerical Rating For Pain Nursing Essay

Pain In Cardiothoracic Surgery Numerical Rating For Pain Nursing Essay Pain is frequently experienced post-operatively, after cardiothoracic surgery, and is thus a core component of nursing practice (Kalso, Perttunen, and Kaasinen, 2002). This assignment introduces the concept of pain and highlights the importance of the accurate assessment of pain in terms of the Nursing and Midwifery (NMC, 2008) Code of Practice and recommended guidelines. This is followed by an evaluation of pain assessment outcome measures, with particular focus on the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) for pain. The NRS, when used as a self-report outcome measure, is the gold standard for pain assessment. It is a psychometrically and operationally robust pain assessment measure, as supported by the evidence presented within this assignment. Not only is the NRS associated with a number of beneficial patient outcomes, but it has also been found to facilitate communication between patients, healthcare professionals, and multidisciplinary teams (de Rond et al., 2001). Pain in Cardiothoracic Surgery: The Numerical Rating Scale for Pain Assessment This assignment introduces the concept of pain and highlights the importance of the accurate assessment of pain within the cardiothoracic surgery setting. This is followed by an evaluation of pain assessment outcome measures, with particular focus on the gold standard self-report outcome measure, the Numerical Rating Scale for pain. Background In the UK, over 10,000 cases of thoracic surgery are carried out each year, with pain being frequently reported post-surgery (Perttunen, Tasmuth, and Kalso, 1999; Maguire et al., 2006). One study found that persistent pain lasting more than 6-months was reported by 44% of patients after a thoracotomy (Kalso, Perttunen, and Kaasinen, 2002). The prevalence of chronic pain after thoracic surgery has been reported as a significant problem that is consistently rated by patients as being one of the most difficult problems following surgery; it can impact a patients life for several years, severely depleting their quality of life (Maguire et al., 2006). Despite the prevalence and burden of pain, the literature highlights many cases of poor clinical practice in the assessment and management of post-operative pain (Dihle et al., 2006; Schoenwald and Clark 2006). This is regardless of past quality improvement initiatives and changes to practice, which comprised the establishment of clinical nurse specialists, multidisciplinary pain teams, and standardised pain assessment tools (The Royal College of Surgeons of England and College of Anaesthetists, 1990). Inadequate assessment and management of post-operative pain poses a number of implications for the patient and the NHS. For example, pain can result in increased levels of anxiety, sleep disturbance, restlessness, irritability, and aggression, as well as limitations in mobility (Macintyre and Ready, 2001; Carr et al., 2005). More importantly, post-operative pain is an unnecessary ordeal that causes heightened distress (Macintyre and Ready, 2001; Carr et al., 2005). It can also have physiological effects on patients, which may lead to complications and delayed discharge from hospital, including increases in heart rate and blood pressure, delayed gastric emptying, nausea, vomiting, and paralytic ileus (paralysis of the intestine). Difficulties coughing, resulting from increased pain on exertion, can result in chest infections and additional problems, such as deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolus (Sjostrom et al 2000; Macintyre and Ready, 2001). At worst, unrelieved pain can be lif e-threatening, especially in older people with comorbidities (Hamil, 1994). Pain is the fifth vital sign in the physiological assessment of patients, making it a core component of nursing practice (Chronic Pain Policy Coalition, 2008). The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organisations has made it mandatory for hospitals to assess pain in patients (Krebs, Carey, and Weinberger, 2007). Nurses are morally and ethically responsible for the accurate assessment of post-operative pain (Dimond, 2002), since this is vital for identifying the nature and severity of pain as well as for administering pain relief interventions and ascertaining the effectiveness of such interventions (Mackintosh, 2007). As an example, pain scores can be used alongside the WHO (1990) three-step analgesic ladder in the administration of pain relief. The assessment of pain is complex and decisions are required as to the most accurate method of assessment within different clinical environments and with different patients. One such complex decision is whether to measure pain observationally or via self-reports and this decision is most likely to be led by conceptions of pain. If defined as a subjective experience, or as described by McCaffery and Beebe (1968, p. 95) as, whatever the experiencing person says it is, existing whenever the experiencing person says it does, then choice of assessment is most likely to be self-report. Self-report is the gold standard for measuring pain since subjective experiences can only be measured from the perspective of the patient (Wood, 2004). The importance of self-report pain assessment is highlighted in a study by Whipple et al. (1995) whereby, out of 17 trauma patients admitted to an intensive care unit, 95% of doctors and 81% of nurses felt that the patients had adequate pain relief; in contrast, 74% of patients rated their pain as moderate or severe. Many other studies confirm this inconsistency between the subjective pain reported by patients and the objective pain reported by healthcare professionals (Sjostrom et al., 2000; Marquie et al., 2003; Sloman et al., 2005). There are a vast array of patient-reported outcome measures for assessing pain, including uni-dimensional scales that measure one element of pain (such as intensity) and multidimensional scales that measure more characteristics of pain and its impact (Macintyre et al., 2010). Whilst multidimensional tools might be better for chronic long-term conditions, uni-dimensional scales have been reported to be effective for acute pain, which can be experienced in the cardiothoracic surgery setting (Wood, 2008). Multi-dimensional measures of pain are rarely used post-surgery as they are more complex and time-consuming (Coll et al., 2004). Therefore, this assignment evaluates selected literature on uni-dimensional outcome measures within this context, with particular focus on the measure recommended by the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists and Faculty of Pain Medicine in their guidance on Acute Pain Management: Scientific Evidence (Macintyre et al., 2010): The Numerical Rating Scale for Pain. Methodology Literature pertaining to the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) for pain was searched in order to identify articles on the NRS and comparative pain assessment tools. The following keywords were used within the search strategy: pain AND numerical rating scale OR NRS AND surgery. The search was limited to articles comprising adult participants. The search was also limited to records no earlier than 2005 in an effort to obtain the most recent evidence examining the NRS. Nevertheless, where these records have cited earlier research assessed as being applicable to this assignment, these records have also been obtained and used as evidence. Results A total of 88 records were retrieved from the pre-defined search criteria, 28 of which were not relevant to this assignment. A total of 60 records were evaluated for evidence to be included within this assignment. In synthesising the evidence within these records and the utilised pain assessment tools, a framework created by Fitzpatrick et al. (1998) was adopted. This framework, designed to facilitate the selection of the most appropriate patient-reported outcome measures, promotes a consideration of the following psychometric properties and operational characteristics: appropriateness of the instrument to the purpose and setting; reliability; validity; responsiveness; precision; interpretability; acceptability; and feasibility. Examples of three of the most frequently utilised uni-dimensional pain assessment measures, as discussed within the following appraisal of the literature, can be found in appendix 1. Literature Appraisal The reviewed evidence suggests that the four most commonly utilised uni-dimensional pain assessment tools are the verbal rating scales (VRS), numerical rating scale (NRS), visual analogue scale (VAS), and pictorial rating scale (PRS). Such tools were developed due to the lack of feasibility associated with using multidimensional outcome measures within the clinical environment (Wood, 2004). Uni-dimensional tools such as the VRS, NRS, VAS and PRS enable health professionals to quantify pain intensity from a subjective perspective without being too time-consuming and without creating a burden for patients. Verbal rating scales are descriptive in nature, allowing patients to rate their pain intensity on a scale of no pain, mild pain, moderate pain, or severe pain (Wood 2004; Williamson and Hoggart, 2005). They have been reported as being one of the easiest tools to understand and use, whilst also offering the option of being completed verbally or in written format. The VRS has been adopted and integrated into acute settings, with numbers to rate pain being used in observation charts (e.g. 1=mild pain; 2=moderate pain, etc.). Such integration into standard practice increases the feasibility of the scale, whilst using numbers to document pain provides ease of interpretability. Of caution, however, is that although verbal rating scales are easy to use, the adjectives do not necessarily represent equal intervals of pain. Indeed, patients may wish to express their pain in via a word not appearing within the list of adjectives they have been presented with (Schofield, 1995). Due to the use of words to describe pain, the VRS is dependent on both the respondents interpretation and understanding of the terms, as well as the health professionals interpretation. It has, therefore, been suggested that this scale lacks the sensitivity and accuracy of other pain rating scales (Baillie 1993). Jensen et al. (1994) suggested that the lack of sensitivity of the VRS could lead to an over or underestimation of changes in pain being experienced and, as such, could make it difficult to manage pain appropriately and effectively. In contrast to the VRS, the visual analogue scale (VAS) uses a 100mm horizontal or vertical line with extremes of pain placed at either end of the line so that the patient marks their pain intensity along the continuum. The distance to the line can then be measured and documented. A VAS rating of greater than 70mm is usually the threshold indicative of severe pain (Aubrun et al., 2008). However, the VAS poses a number of limitations within the clinical setting. It requires a greater degree of cognitive functioning, physical dexterity, and concentration than other measures of pain, and thus it is not suitable for some patients, including older patients and those with visual difficulties (Krulewitch et al., 2000). Indeed, Chapman and Syrjala (1990) estimated that 7-11% of adults would have difficulty using the VAS, whilst Wood (2004) went on to find that about 20% of patients are either unable to complete the VAS or find it confusing. Also, because it is administered verbally, it might be difficult to use after general anaesthesia or administration of some analgesics. In addition, the VAS has been found to be highly sensitive to changes in levels of pain, which can make it difficult to use (Bird and Dickson, 2001). Overall, the VAS has been found to be the least suitable uni-dimensional pain assessment measure, especially if administered after cardiac surgery (Pesonen et al., 2008). Numerical rating scales (NRS) offer an alternative to descriptive measures of pain by assessing pain intensity numerically, on a scale of 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst pain imaginable). A value of four or more is most often used as a threshold to guide clinical intervention (Mularski, 2006). On the other hand, the most recent guidance from the World Union of Wound Healing Societies (WUWHS, 2007) makes no reference to pain score thresholds, merely offering that change in pain level may indicate a need to reassess the patient. The NRS has been found to be highly acceptable to patients when compared to other pain scales (WUWHS, 2007) and, like the VRS, it has the advantage of being validated for verbal or written administration, which makes it feasible for use with patients who have differing levels of ability to complete such assessments (Paice and Cohen, 1997). It has been shown that older patients, post-operative patients, and patients with poor motor coordination are able to use the NRS (Rodriguez, 2001; Aubrun et al., 2003). It is not recommended, however, for patients with post-operative confusion (Ferrell et al., 1995). The NRS is more sensitive than the VRS, although some patients might find it difficult to describe their pain numerically (Carpenter and Brockopp, 1995). The NRS for pain is recommended by the The Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists and Faculty of Pain Medicine developed guidance on Acute Pain Management: Scientific Evidence (Macintyre et al., 2010), which is endorsed by the Faculty of Pain Medicine, Royal College of Anaesthetists in the UK as well the International Association for the Study of Pain. The guidance aims to combine a review of the best available evidence for acute pain management with current clinical practice and was designed to provide information based on best evidence. The support cited within the document shows a good correlation between the VAS and NRS, indicating good levels if convergent validity with a measure purporting to assess the same construct. However, this correlation is not as strong in cardiothoracic patients compared to non-cardiothoracic patients (Ahlers et al., 2008). The document also highlights that the NRS is usually preferable, most certainly among patients (Herr et al., 2004). This is likely due to its feasibility in terms of burden to patients and staff since it only takes 30 seconds to complete (Downie et al., 1978). Importantly, the NRS has been found to be responsive to interventions such as patient-controlled analgesia (Li, Liu and Herr 2009), making it an effective instrument for monitoring pain management. The scale is also highly Downie et al. (1978) also found the NRS to have superior accuracy when compared to the VAS and simple descriptive measures of pain such as the VRS. It could be argued that the NRS provides a compromise between the VRS, which offers only a few descriptors for patients to choose from, and the VAS, which has been reported to offer too much choice and to be confusing. In terms of comparability against observer-based measures of pain, the NRS has been found to be more sensitive to detecting pain than the Behavioural Pain Scale (BPS) in both cardiothoracic and non-cardiothoracic patients (Ahlers et al., 2008). The authors rationalise that when using the NRS, health professionals tend to gather more background information on the patient, taking into consideration pain over time. In contrast, the BPS measures pain at one point in time, is objective, and lacks a contextual basis for interpretation. Therefore, the authors recommend that the BPS is only used alongside the NRS (Ahlers et al., 2008). This again supports self-reported pain as being the gold-standard for pain assessment and management. Importantly, studies have demonstrated that improvements in pain assessment and documentation frequently lead to more effective pain management (Erdek and Pronovost, 2004). In terms of the NRS, the evidence suggests that using this scale frequently results in favourable clinical outcomes such as decreased incidence of pain and agitation, as well as a decrease in the duration of mechanical ventilation (Chanques et al., 2006). It also enhances the nurse-patient relationship by providing acknowledgment of pain (Briggs, 2003). These positive outcomes are likely related to the fact that healthcare professionals are less liable to underestimate a patients level of pain when using the NRS than when compared to not using it. One study showed that of patients experiencing pain, where a discrepancy was reported between patient and nurse ratings, the NRS had not been used in 45% of such cases (Lorenz et al., 2009). This problem is especially apparent when patients rate their pain as being unacc eptable; nurses tend to underestimate the level of pain if not collecting pain ratings from patients using the NRS (Ahlers et al., 2008). In this sense, the NRS and, indeed, other pain measures are invaluable for facilitating patient communication of pain and expression of pain (Wood, 2004). The NRS also offers a number of practical advantages in that it is easy to teach to all staff and patients, as well as being easy to score and document. The documentation of all measures of pain is fundamental for the delivery of effective care, and it also facilitates communication between multidisciplinary team members (American Pain Society, 1995). The NRS is a valid and reliable measure of pain, but does still need to be used with caution and professional judgment as some studies have found a lack of consistency between ratings of pain. For example, one study found that whilst a patient might express a reduction in pain after an intervention, their score on the NRS remains the same (Mackintosh, 2005). Furthermore, a rating of, for example, seven by one patient might have a different meaning to another patient (Sloman et al., 2000). However, provided that such limitations are taken into consideration and efforts made to supplement the information gathered from the NRS, the instrument can be a highly effective tool for the assessment and management of pain (Mackintosh, 2005). Such supplementary enquiry might include observation and history taking, as recommended by McCaffery and Pasero (1999). Implications for Practice Despite the many benefits to uni-dimensional outcome measures of pain, such tools need to be used with caution as they only focus on limited aspects of the pain experience, arguable oversimplifying the complexity of the experience (Wood, 2004). They also pose the risk of being misinterpreted, a risk that cannot be rectified via descriptive tools since interpretation difficulties are also present when using the VRS. For example, what constitutes moderate pain might vary across patients and health professionals, as well as be dependent on factors such as personality, culture, and experience (Closs et al., 2004). The validity and reliability of all pain assessment tools, including the NRS, can be enhanced by familiarising the patient with the assessment tool and explaining the reasons for its use. Indeed, Giordano, Abramson and Boswell (2010) have emphasised the importance of listening to the patients subjective descriptions of pain and being consistent in the documentation of any pain assessment. At the same time, it is imperative to acknowledge that a pain assessment tool is only one aspect of the overall assessment of the patients pain (Duke, 2006). In the cardiothoracic setting, pain assessment should include static (rest) and dynamic (sitting, coughing, etc.) pain assessment and management (Macintyre et al., 2010). Although the assessment process should not be rushed, it does need to commence soon after surgery since studies have shown that high levels of pain immediately after surgery are associated with increased risk of developing chronic pain (Katz et al., 1996). In the clinical environment, it is not always feasible to carry out extensive assessments of pain, but the benefit of utilising a tool such as the NRS is that it provides an initial brief assessment of pain intensity. This, in turn, provides vital information on whether pain relief is required or whether a previously administered intervention has been effective. It is understood, however, that awareness of other pain measures is essential for the purpose of providing equal care to patients who might not be able to complete the NRS. For example, patients with cognitive impairments might find the Abbey Pain Scale easier to complete (Abbey et al., 2004), whilst patients with learning disabilities might prefer Zwakhalen et al.s (2004) scale of non-verbal indicators. Conclusions Effective pain management needs to commence with effective pain assessment, as well as the identification of factors requiring urgent intervention (Fear, 2010). The Numerical Rating Scale for pain provides a psychometrically robust method of assessing pain intensity and monitoring pain reduction interventions. As well as being psychometrically robust, the scale is acceptable to patients and feasible within busy clinical environments such as the cardiothoracic surgery setting. The best available evidence suggests the Numerical Rating Scale for pain is a suitable tool for the assessment and management of post-surgery pain and using this tool thus adheres to the Nursing and Midwifery (NMC, 2008) Code of Practice for providing a high standard of evidence-based practice at all times. Not only does this scale provide improved patient outcomes, but it also promotes communication between the patient, nurse, and multidisciplinary team (de Rond et al., 2001). More research is needed on the acc uracy and effectiveness of the NRS, as well as exploration as to any potential improvements to the instrument (Krebs, Carey, and Weinberger, 2007); however, until then, the evidence suggests that the NRS is an acceptable and efficacious screening tool for measuring pain in patients. Appendix 1: Pain Rating Scales Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) Faces Rating Scale (FRS)